Today we’d like to introduce you to Gayle Potter.
Hi Gayle, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I often joke that I didn’t set out to build a career in chamber leadership—I sort of fell in love with it along the way. I started at the Liberty Chamber as an administrative temp in the fall of 1998. At the time, I honestly didn’t even know what a chamber of commerce was. But very quickly, the organization intrigued me. I loved being part of the events and programs, and I was energized by meeting business owners and learning their stories.
As my career progressed, I moved into roles with more responsibility, eventually working directly with our members to plan and lead events rather than simply assisting with them. That hands-on involvement helped me better understand the real needs of local businesses and the role a chamber can play in helping them succeed.
In 2005, I was promoted to President of the Chamber, which was a significant turning point. Overnight, my responsibilities expanded to include overseeing the entire organization—our budget, programs, staff, and long-term vision. It was both challenging and incredibly rewarding, and it pushed me to grow as a leader.
Along the way, I pursued professional development through the Institute for Organization Management (IOM), a nationally recognized program for nonprofit leaders through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. After completing the program, I went on to serve six years on the Midwest Board of Regents, helping guide and support the program’s on-site implementation. It was meaningful to give back to a program that had such an impact on my own leadership journey.
Community service has always been an important part of my life as well. I’ve been a proud member of the Liberty Sertoma Club for more than 20 years, serving as Treasurer, President, and currently as Chair. I’ve also served multiple years on the MAKO Board of Directors, supporting professional development and networking opportunities for chamber professionals across Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, and Oklahoma.
In 2025, I stepped into the role of President of the Liberty Chamber Foundation, where our focus is on education, workforce development, and creating opportunities that strengthen our community for the long term. What started as a temporary role turned into a lifelong commitment, and I’m excited to keep shaping a future where our Chamber, our businesses, and our community grow stronger together.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Stepping into leadership meant learning very quickly how to navigate uncertainty, and that became especially real during the 2008 recession and again during COVID.
In 2008, I watched many of our members struggle just to keep their doors open. That was sobering, and it stayed with me. It forced me to make tough decisions, be careful with resources, and focus on what truly mattered to our businesses. COVID was even more personal—overnight, everything changed. We were figuring things out in real time, supporting members through fear, closures, and constant unknowns, while also managing our own operations.
Those moments tested me deeply as a leader, but they also clarified my purpose. They reminded me that leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about showing up, listening, and providing stability when others need it most.
We’ve been impressed with Liberty Chamber, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The Liberty Chamber exists to support businesses, strengthen our local economy, and connect people in meaningful ways. At our core, we are a relationship-driven organization. We help businesses of all sizes grow by providing access to connections, visibility, advocacy, and leadership development opportunities.
What sets us apart is how intentionally we focus on people. Our work goes beyond networking—we create programs and experiences that help members build real relationships, develop leadership skills, and feel invested in the community. From professional development programs like Leadership Liberty and Rise & Lead, to signature community events such as Liberty Fest and the Liberty Fall Festival, everything we do is designed to bring people together around shared goals.
We’re also known for being accessible and responsive. We take the time to understand our members’ needs and adapt as the business landscape evolves. Whether that means advocating on behalf of local businesses, creating new ways to connect, or supporting workforce and education initiatives through the Liberty Chamber Foundation, we stay focused on delivering value that matters.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the trust we’ve built. Our members know we show up consistently, especially during challenging times, and that we lead with integrity, collaboration, and a long-term view. What I want readers to know is that the Liberty Chamber isn’t just a membership organization—it’s a partner, a connector, and a champion for the businesses and people who make our community thrive.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I love most about Kansas City is its heart. It’s a city full of pride, creativity, and people who genuinely show up for one another. We have big-city amenities with a strong sense of community, and that combination fuels innovation, entrepreneurship, and momentum.
What I like least is that we don’t always recognize how special we are. Kansas City has everything it needs to compete on a national stage, and sometimes we’re a little too modest about it. The exciting part is that confidence is growing—and so is the city’s impact.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.libertychamber.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/libertymochamber/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liberty.chamber/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gayle-potter-iom-b466a6b/
